As the Golden State Warriors prepare for the 2023-24 season, head coach Steve Kerr is tasked with the challenge of establishing a consistent starting lineup. The competition is fierce, especially with uncertainties clouding several key positions, most notably the shooting guard spot previously occupied by the stalwart Klay Thompson.
Kerr’s strategic evaluation during training camp is crucial to ensuring the right combination of players come together for both the starting unit and the bench. The focus is on building cohesion and finding the optimal blend of talent.
Shifting Roles and Open Positions
One of the most closely watched battles is for the center position, where Kevon Looney and rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis are vying for dominance. Meanwhile, the versatile Draymond Green, known for his defensive prowess and leadership, is likely to retain his position. However, Kerr has floated the idea of veteran Kyle Anderson potentially playing a small-ball center role, providing flexibility in the lineup.
The frontcourt also presents competition, with Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins both making strong cases for a spot. It's not just the frontcourt where Kerr is spoilt for choice; the shooting guard position has become a hotbed of competition as well. Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield are all in the running, each bringing distinct strengths to the table.
There is one area of certainty: Stephen Curry’s starting position is assured. As the leader and face of the franchise, Curry’s role is cemented. This stability is crucial as Kerr navigates the murky waters of forming the rest of the lineup.
Balancing Act for Kerr
Last season, the Warriors utilized 27 different starting lineups, a statistic indicative of the ongoing search for the right combination. Kerr acknowledges the challenge but also sees potential in competition driving the team’s identity. "The starting lineup is going to have to be dependent not only on the first five fitting, but the second fitting as well. We've got a lot of work to do to figure out lineups. All the guys can do is compete, play their ass off," Kerr stated.
Understanding that the dynamics are complex, Kerr elaborates, "There is competition across the board. It's not as simple as, 'Who is going to be the 2?' It's got to be -- 'Who is going to be the 5? Who's the 4?' We know that Steph is the 1. But what's the combination?" This level of competition ensures that every player must bring their A-game to earn their spot.
Emphasis on High-Volume Shooting
The Warriors have built a reputation as one of the most prolific three-point shooting teams in the league, ranking fourth in the league for 3-point attempts last season. Kerr is eager to maintain and even amplify this approach. Reflecting on the plan, he mentioned, "I want Wigs shooting six, seven 3s. I want Brandin, I want Moses, I want De'Anthony -- I want to be a high volume shooting team." This philosophy underscores the importance of spacing and shooting efficiency in the modern NBA.
Veteran Insights and New Beginnings
Stephen Curry, the team’s lynchpin, recognizes the potential contributions from various players competing for the shooting guard spot. "You've got a guy who's a connector and can put the ball on the floor, create like BP, and obviously me and BP started a couple times last year. You've got Buddy who can shoot, who spaces the floor, and is a veteran. We've got a lot of options," Curry noted. This veteran insight is invaluable as the team navigates its metamorphosis.
For Kerr, the upcoming season symbolizes a fresh start. "This feels like a new beginning for us, whereas last year felt like an extension of who we already were. It gives us a chance to reinvent ourselves a little bit," he reflected. With an eye on both stability and innovation, Kerr is determined to leverage competition to the team’s advantage.
Kerr understands the complexities he faces. "It's easier when you know your starting five and you know your first four guys off of the bench. Way easier as a coach knowing that. But we don't have that. So let's turn that into a positive and turn it into competition ... let's establish our identity out of that competition." His objective is clear: foster an environment where competition hones the team’s identity, ensuring that the Warriors are not just a collection of talented individuals, but a cohesive and dynamic unit ready to tackle the season ahead.